Wane extends Wigan deal

Wigan's preparations for this weekend's Tetley's Challenge Cup Final have been given a timely boost with coach Shaun Wane agreeing to extend his deal through to the end of next season.

The 48-year-old has exercised a one-year option in his contract and will continue his pursuit of success with his hometown club, shutting down talk of a move to the NRL in the process.

He will have an immediate chance to win a trophy on Saturday when his men meet Hull at Wembley, while they currently sit third in the Super League as the play-offs approach.

Last season, Wane's first in charge after replacing Michael Maguire, Wigan finished top of the regular-season table and reached the semi-finals of the cup.

"We are all delighted that Shaun will be with us again next season. Shaun has done everything we have asked of him and as far as we are concerned, it would have been silly not to take up the option," chairman Ian Lenagan said.

"We can all see the input he's made on the team and the way the players have responded to having Shaun as the head coach."

One of the hallmarks of Wane's time in charge of Wigan has been his willingness to invest in youth, having previously coached the club's academy.

Such work led to him being linked with a move to the New Zealand Warriors, but that talk can now be shelved.